The annual West European Fish Technologists Association (WEFTA) conference, organised by EGE Üniversitesi in Bornova, İzmir, serves as a central platform in Europe for institutions involved in fish processing, applied food science, aquaculture, seafood technology, and consumer studies related to seafood. Highlighting the role of innovation and collaboration in enhancing sustainability across the European seafood sector, WEFTA embodies ongoing efforts to harmonise ecological stewardship with market-driven growth. Dedicated to improving the safety and quality of seafood in European and global markets, WEFTA coordinates research activities among its member institutes, benefiting research organisations, the fisheries industry, consumers, stakeholders, and governments. The annual conference provides a valuable occasion for scientists, students, and industry professionals to present recent research, share experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions. Additionally, it offers an exceptional forum for networking and fostering collaborations aimed at advancing the seafood sector.
During this year’s WEFTA conference, held from October 14 to October 18, 2024, in Çeşme, Türkiye, Dr. Eng. Olga Szulecka, a member of the Scientific Committee from the Polish National Marine Fisheries Research Institute (MIR-PIB) and part of the IMPRESS project, took the stage during the Seafood Consumption and Consumers session to present findings from our research. Szulecka’s presentation titled “Fish Product Features as Consumer Purchase Drivers” shed light on consumer behaviour in seafood markets and explored the intricate factors influencing seafood purchases beyond the basic considerations of availability, price, and sensory appeal. The research, elaborated within Work Package 1, revealed that consumers increasingly prioritise health benefits, product size, and convenience in preparation and use. Interestingly, environmental considerations and branding remain less influential, particularly among younger consumers. In contrast, older generations display a greater propensity to weigh these additional factors during their purchasing decisions.
The insights derived from this research underscores the importance of aligning product development and marketing strategies with the evolving preferences of diverse consumer demographics, balancing sustainability goals with tangible consumer needs. By bridging these gaps, stakeholders in the seafood value chain can effectively cater to the dynamic marketplace while promoting responsible consumption.
